From designer reinventions to celebrity partnerships, everyone’s putting their spin on our favourite shoes.
But which ones are actually worth the hype? The best collaborations of 2026 are not simply about a famous name attached to a familiar silhouette — they are the ones that bring a genuine new idea to the shoe.
UGG x JW Anderson is one of the strongest. Jonathan Anderson reworks the Classic Boot and Tasman with penny-loafer details, rounded toes, saddle straps and box stitching, creating a hybrid that feels cosy, elevated and distinctly his. The chestnut, khaki and orange colourways add just enough eccentricity to make the collection feel special.
Hailey Bieber x Adanola takes a more lifestyle-led approach. While the capsule is largely centred on ballet-inspired activewear, its Rib Knit Leg Warmers, soft layers and dancewear references show how footwear and styling can shape an entire mood. It is less about one hero shoe and more about the balletcore aesthetic surrounding it.
Elsewhere, Celine x Reebok stood out at Paris Fashion Week with its distressed, fashion-forward take on the sneaker, while sacai x Birkenstock, Rick Owens x adidas, Kenzo x Paraboot and Miu Miu x New Balance proved that the most interesting collaborations often come from unexpected pairings. Miu Miu’s New Balance partnership, in particular, continues to sell out thanks to its luxury-grade finish and cult following.
The verdict? The shoes worth the hype are the ones that feel considered rather than opportunistic: a new silhouette, a distinctive detail or a collaboration that changes how we see an existing classic.
